Step Inside The Exclusive Explorers Club In New York City

Joshua Berlinger/Business Insider Last week, Business Insider was invited to the launch of jet charter company Air Charter Service's new prepaid "Lindbergh" card at the Explorers Club headquarters on the Upper East Side of New York.

Boy, was it classy. The century-old townhouse, which the club purchased in 1965 for $650,000, was filled with an impressive collection of nature-related antiques and paintings. The dimly lit setting gave off a relaxing vibe, perfect for winding down after a long adventure.

The club, which is dedicated to the scientific exploration of earth, was incorporated in 1905 and now as 30 branches around the world. Famous members include Neil Armstrong, Roald Amundsen, and Sir Edmund Hilary.

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The club is marked by a small sign outside its Upper East Side townhouse.

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The entrance is classy, but still unassuming.

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When you step inside, to the left is the "Members Only" lounge.

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There's a bar that's exclusively for the club's members. There are more than 3,000 of them worldwide.

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The place feels like it's out of the movies. It's dimly lit, with dark wood walls, leather furniture, and nature-themed paintings and tchotchkes.

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Sculptures of former members and inspirational figures are everywhere.

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And most of the windows have beautiful stained glass etchings.

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Here's the staircase up to the second floor, where events are held.

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There's a ton of taxidermy and other artifacts displayed around the building.

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Yes, that's a stuffed polar bear. It roars when you press a secret hidden button.

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On the right is the lounge, used for drinks and entertaining guests prior to an event, among other things.

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It was a great spot for a private jet charter company to hold an event.

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The rooms were all similarly decorated: blue carpets, wood, and marble abounded. A wooden canoe hung near the ceiling.

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And of course, more stain-glass windows.

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The fireplace was exquisite, with mermaids carved into the side.

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We weren't allowed on the third floor, but the stairs up to it had more beautiful paintings.